Name-dropping (orname-checking) is the practice of naming or alluding to important people or institutions in order to indicate one's association with them. The term often connotes an attempt to impress others; it is usually regarded negatively,[1] and under certain circumstances may constitute a breach ofprofessional ethics.[2] It may be done within a conversation,[1] a story,[3] a song, anonline identity,[4] or other communication.
When used as part of a logicalargument it can be an example of thefalse authorityfallacy.[5]
Name-dropping is used to position oneself within asocial hierarchy. It is often used to create a sense of superiority by raising one's status.[citation needed] By implying (or directly asserting) a connection to people of high status, the name-dropper hopes to raise their ownsocial status to a level closer to that of those whose names they have dropped, and thus elevate themselves above, or into, present company.
Name-dropping can also be used to identify people with a common bond. By indicating the names of people one knows, one makes known theirsocial circle, providing an opportunity for others with similar connections to relate.[6]
As a form ofappeal to authority, name-dropping can be an important form of informalargumentation, as long as the name being dropped is of someone who is an expert on the subject of the argument and that person's views are accurately represented.
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Use of the first name may be effective, as in the case of "Kingsley" forKingsley Amis.[7]
Name-dropping is also sometimes used in works of fiction to place a story in a certain historical timeframe, or to imply the involvement of a historical figure in the action (for example, in a story set during World War II, mentioningAdolf Hitler orWinston Churchill).[citation needed]
The dictionary definition ofname-dropping at Wiktionary